He had been given tickets by the Manchester United Foundation via his school, Middleton Technology, and after the Foundation found out about James's selfless act, they arranged something pretty special.

James was presented with a signed shirt and VIP tickets to a match by Rooney at the club’s Aon Training Complex.

Touching video footage shows the moment the forward surprised the die-hard red devil after stepping out from behind a screen with the gifts.

Secret: Rooney hid behind the cameraman before surprising James

James had been told he had to be there for a meeting about his involvement with the Foundation, but was clearly emotional on meeting his favourite player in person.

On meeting James, Rooney told him: “I’ve heard your mum hasn’t been too well and I know you couldn’t make a previous game, so me and the team have signed a shirt for you and got you two VIP tickets – we’ll make sure you can go this time.”

James and his mum later enjoyed a VIP experience at United’s 2-0 win over West Bromwich Albion at Old Trafford.

Gesture: Rooney handed James a signed shirt

After the match James, who spends all his free time caring for his seriously ill mum, said: “I’m so happy to have met my lifelong hero; I was speechless.

“I didn’t have a single clue what was going to happen; it’s been the best day of my life, that’s all I can say.”

Handshake: The pair posed for pictures after a conversation

United are set to reveal a series of fan surprises in the run-up to Christmas, making more dreams like James’ come true.

The ‘Christmas Dream’ series has been made possible through the club’s partnership with Chevrolet.